Mamata Banerjee refuses to resign after TMC loss, alleges conspiracy in Bengal poll results
PTC Web Desk: Outgoing West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday dismissed demands for her resignation following the party’s defeat in the Assembly elections. She stated that the outcome was not a reflection of the people’s mandate but the result of a “well-planned conspiracy.”
Addressing a press conference, Mamata made it clear that stepping down was not under consideration. She maintained that the electoral verdict had been influenced by irregularities and external interference rather than a fair democratic process.
“The question of resignation does not arise. This is not a defeat by public mandate but the outcome of a conspiracy. I have not lost, and I will not go to Lok Bhavan. Authorities are free to proceed as per constitutional provisions,” she said.
The TMC supremo further alleged that her party was not contesting solely against the BJP, but also against the Election Commission of India, accusing the poll body of functioning in favour of the BJP during the elections.
She claimed that there were widespread discrepancies in the counting process, alleging that results in nearly 100 constituencies were manipulated. She also suggested that delays in vote counting were intentional, aimed at discouraging TMC workers and supporters.
Describing the situation as deeply concerning, she said, “A dark chapter has been written in the history of democracy.”
The outgoing Chief Minister also took aim at Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of compromising the democratic rights of citizens.
In response to reports of violence following the election results, she announced the formation of a 10-member committee that will visit affected areas to assess the ground situation. However, she dismissed allegations related to post-poll violence in 2021 as unfounded.
Highlighting political support beyond the state, Mamata said leaders from the opposition INDIA bloc had reached out to her after the results. “Leaders from the INDIA alliance have expressed solidarity. Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi have spoken to me,” she noted, referring to Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.
She added that she would now shift her focus toward strengthening the opposition alliance at the national level.
The BJP registered a sweeping victory in the 294-member Assembly, winning 207 seats and bringing an end to the TMC’s 15-year tenure in West Bengal.
- With inputs from agencies
